The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Limited has assured the accelerated completion of Egbema Power Plant,under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP).
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NDPHC, Engr. Jennifer Adighije, gave the assurance when she hosted the House Committee on Power, led by its Chairman, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, on a site inspection of the Egbema NIPP Power Plant on Thursday.
Located near Owerri in Imo State, the Egbema power project consists of three generating units with an installed capacity of 375MW and was awarded to CMEC China Machinery Engineering Company in 2023, with completion targeted for end of the year.
The inspection aimed to assess the progress of the ongoing project and discuss challenges facing the project as well as the power sector at large.
Speaking during the tour of the project, Engr. Adighije, mentioned that the NDPHC was closely monitoring the progress to ensure timely completion.
The MD, in a statement by the General Manager, Communication and Public Relations, NDPHC, Olufunke Nwankwo,
highlighted the broader challenges facing the power sector, particularly a liquidity crisis of over ₦4 trillion owed to generation companies (GenCos).
She therefore, urged for presidential intervention to facilitate funding for ongoing projects, settle outstanding payments, and enhance electricity access nationwide.
Furthermore, she reiterated NDPHC’s commitment to advancing Mr. President’s vision of reliable, affordable electricity, positioning the company as the backbone of Nigeria’s power sector.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Hon. Nwokolo, commended the NDPHC Management for their proactive approach in reviving the Egbema Power Plant, stating that the project had faced delays due to litigation issues, but the new Management and contractor have significantly accelerated progress.
From the inspection, approximately 60% of the work has been completed, bringing the project closer to commissioning.
He expressed confidence that with proper funding, the contractors will deliver on schedule.
Addressing broader sectoral concerns, he acknowledged the cash crunch in the industry but praised the President for signing the Electricity Act, which has improved the financial viability of the power sector.
He noted that new tariff structures are making the sector more attractive to investors and financial institutions.
The Chairman further commended Mr. President for his Renewed Hope Agenda and commitment to power sector reforms.
He also commended the Honorable Minister of Power for his leadership and efforts in advancing critical projects. The contractors were also commended for their dedication to ensuring steady progress.
He emphasized that beyond electricity generation, the project would create jobs, enhance security, and contribute to economic growth in surrounding communities.
He assured that Egbema Power Plant, with adequate funding, will soon reach full operational capacity and align with other functional power plants.
He assured that the National Assembly will not distort allocations, ensuring funds are effectively utilized.
The House Committee on Power expressed confidence in NDPHC’s leadership and assured continued legislative support to address sector challenges, particularly in securing adequate funding for project completion.
